Budget holidays to China

This trip features all the key attractions of China, as well as exploring some lesser-known sights. In the southwest province of Yunnan province, we visit a Bai minority village, staying in family-owned accommodation . We also have the chance to purchase locally made quality handicrafts, thus helping the local economy. In Lijiang, we attend a recital by the Naxi Orchestra, which performs traditional music from the Tang dynasty. The members of the orchestra hid their instruments during the cultural revolution and their efforts have helped to preserve their ancient musical heritage. While trekking in Tiger Leaping Gorge, we stay in remote villages, where our accommodation is in a small, family-owned and operated guesthouse. And that’s all before we cruise down the Yangtze River, visit the Terracotta Warriors or stride along the Great Wall.

This trip is focused on respecting and benefiting the local people and the environment of this country. On this trip you will be lead by an experienced local leader passionate about their country's history, heritage and natural beauty that will help you to get 'under the skin' of their country and see it through the eyes of a local. This trip stays at locally run accommodation; we eat at local restaurants and travel on local transport. This ensures the financial return to the local economy opens up training and employment opportunities - and allows for informal and meaningful interaction between our travellers and local people.

We are constantly seeking new and innovative ways of neutralising our impact on the environment. We will become the first Australian adventure tour operator to offer a voluntary carbon offsetting option on the land component of all its tours, as well as the accompanying flights. Our Community Trust provides funds for local community projects and initiatives that promote responsible and sustainable tourism development in the destinations in which we operate. First and foremost, but not exclusively, the Trust supports projects and initiatives that advance education and employment within the tourism and hospitality industry. The Trust operates on a not-for-profit basis, with every cent of funds donated by us, our staff and our travellers, going to the nominated projects.

The maximum group size on all of our adventures is 16 passengers – with exception of some African trips (24 max) and in the Polar Regions, where our ship carries a maximum of 110 passengers. Travelling in small groups ensures we make significantly less impact on the natural environment, as well as breaking down many of the communication barriers presented by a larger group. Whether you are travelling alone or with friends its good value, and a great way to meet new people! While itineraries are pre-planned there is some flexibility and time to make your own discoveries. This trip will appeal to travellers of all ages who enjoy meeting new people as well as gaining an understanding of the respective cultures you visit.